From Zagreb: Private Rovinj & Istra Truffle Tasting Day Trip

A private day trip from Zagreb to Istria offers an immersive experience into Croatia’s captivating inland and coast. At 11 hours long, this tour is perfect for travelers seeking a comfortable, personalized exploration of some of Istria’s most beloved sights. The trip includes visits to Motovun, renowned for its hilltop charm and legendary forests, and Rovinj, often called the jewel of Istria, with its pastel-colored houses and scenic harbor.

Conducted by Pegasus travel d.o.o., this tour boasts a 5-star rating, highlighting its quality and attention to detail. With a private group setting, travelers enjoy flexibility, a dedicated guide, and a smooth journey in a new, air-conditioned van. The tour balances sightseeing, tasting local delicacies, and capturing scenic views, making it ideal for those eager to taste Istria’s culinary delights and explore its storied towns.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience led by an English-speaking guide
• 11-hour trip from Zagreb, including all transportation
• Visit the medieval hilltop town of Motovun and explore its ancient walls and legends
• Enjoy a guided truffle tasting with cold cuts, delicacies, and Istrian brandies
• Wander through Rovinj’s pastel streets, artisan shops, and climb St. Euphemia’s Church for stunning sea views
• Includes scenic drives through rolling hills, forests, and coastal landscapes

You can check availability for your dates here:

Scenic Drive from Zagreb to Istria in Comfort

This tour begins with a scenic 3-hour drive in a new, air-conditioned van from Zagreb to the heart of Istria. The vehicle’s comfort ensures a relaxed start, and the journey showcases Croatia’s lush rolling hills, dense forests, and picturesque villages. The route sets a peaceful tone for the day, and the guide shares insights about the region’s history and landscape along the way.

Traveling in a private vehicle minimizes crowds, offering a more personalized experience. The drive also provides opportunities to appreciate the Croatian countryside before arriving at the first stop, Motovun.

Exploring the Medieval Hilltop Town of Motovun

Upon reaching Motovun, perched above the Mirna River valley, visitors encounter a town rich in history and legend. The medieval streets are narrow and steep, perfect for wandering and photos. The ancient city walls offer panoramic views of vineyards and olive groves that stretch across the surrounding countryside.

Local stories add a mystical flavor: forests around Motovun are said to have been home to witches and forest spirits. The guide leads a guided tour through the town’s historic sites, and there’s free time for photos, shopping, or simply soaking in the views. Visitors can also enjoy a cheese tasting and regional snacks during this stop.

Tasting the Region’s Famous Truffles

A highlight of this trip is the guided truffle tasting in Motovun. The tasting features local truffles along with cold cuts and delicacies, paired with regional brandies. This experience offers a delicious introduction to Istria’s renowned truffle industry and its culinary traditions.

The tasting takes place at a local shop, providing an authentic and intimate setting. The guide shares insights into how truffles are harvested and their significance in Istrian cuisine. Afterward, travelers can purchase local products or explore more of Motovun’s shops.

Lunch in a Traditional Istrian Tavern

Following the truffle tasting, the tour includes an optional lunch at a traditional tavern or cozy restaurant in Motovun. The focus is on authentic Istrian flavors, with regional dishes served in a relaxed atmosphere. This is a suitable opportunity to sample local cheeses, olive oils, and regional wines, adding depth to the day’s culinary experience.

The timing allows enough space for a leisurely meal, giving visitors a chance to appreciate the region’s gastronomic heritage.

More Great Tours Nearby

Discovering Rovinj’s Coastal Charm

After lunch, the journey continues with a roughly one-hour drive west to Rovinj, often called the “jewel of Istria**. Known for its pastel-colored houses, the town’s harbor is lively and picturesque. The bell tower of St. Euphemia’s Church dominates the skyline, serving as a focal point for exploration.

In Rovinj, visitors walk along cobbled streets, exploring artisan shops, local galleries, and charming cafés. The guide leads a guided tour of the town’s highlights, including a visit to St. Euphemia’s Church, where legend says her sarcophagus is kept in the tower. Climbing to the top offers sweeping views of the sea and nearby islands.

Relaxing by the Water with Scenic Views

The tour provides time for free exploration and photos around Rovinj’s vibrant harbor. Before heading back to Zagreb, visitors can relax with a drink at a waterfront café, enjoying the atmosphere and warm afternoon light. The scenic drive back in a comfortable van concludes the day, rounding out a full experience of inland towns and coastlines.

Practical Logistics and Group Experience

This tour departs from Zagreb, with pickup included at your accommodation where accessible. The private group format ensures exclusivity and flexibility, with a live English-speaking guide sharing stories and insights throughout the day. Travelers are advised to bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing.

The entire experience is designed for convenience, with full transportation and cancelation flexibility—allowing cancellations up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Payment is also flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

Unique Highlights of the Tour Experience

What sets this trip apart is the combination of medieval towns, culinary delights, and coastal scenery in a private, personalized setting. The guided tastings and local legends make the day more engaging, while the scenic drives reveal Croatia’s diverse landscape.

The inclusion of St. Euphemia’s Church adds a layer of legend and breathtaking views, making Rovinj a highlight. The truffle tasting offers a taste of Istria’s culinary heritage that’s hard to beat.

Who Will Most Appreciate This Tour

This private trip suits travelers who prefer comfort and flexibility over large tour groups. It’s ideal for food lovers, history enthusiasts, and those eager to see both inland and coastal parts of Istria in one day. The small group setting is perfect for a relaxed, intimate experience.

Note that the tour involves scenic walks and some uphill climbs at Motovun and Rovinj, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The trip’s length and pacing make it a good choice for those prepared for a full, adventure-filled day.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour covers major highlights, it’s a full-day trip that requires lots of walking and driving. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy structured sightseeing with guided commentary. Weather conditions can influence the experience, especially at outdoor stops and the church climb.

Since the tour is private, it offers tailored flexibility but may be limited by your preferred start times and availability. Advanced booking is recommended to secure your preferred date.

Rovinj & Istria Day Trip: An Authentic Croatian Experience

This private tour from Zagreb offers an excellent balance of history, culinary exploration, and scenic beauty. The carefully curated stops at Motovun and Rovinj ensure travelers see the best of inland and coastal Istria. The inclusion of local tastings and charming towns adds a memorable flavor to the day.

While it’s a full itinerary, the comfort of private transport and expert guiding make the experience enjoyable and manageable. It’s perfect for visitors seeking an immersive, personalized Croatian adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural insights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided for the entire trip?
Yes, transportation in a new, air-conditioned van is included for the full duration of the 11-hour tour, from pickup in Zagreb to return.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring for the day?
Travelers should bring a passport or ID, comfortable shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
While specific age restrictions are not mentioned, the tour involves walking and some uphill climbs, so it’s best suited for those in good mobility and comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

Are there options for meals during the trip?
Yes, after the truffle tasting, there is an opportunity to enjoy lunch at a local tavern or restaurant in Motovun, focusing on authentic regional dishes.

How do I know where to meet the guide?
The guide will pick you up at your accommodation or a nearest safe pickup point, indicated by a Pegasus Travel sign. It’s advised to arrive a few minutes early.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby